The Bombay High Court has expressed significant concerns regarding the investigation into the death of Disha Salian, emphasising that her father, Satish Salian, deserves a lawful resolution to this matter. During a hearing on 28 August 2026, a bench comprising Justices S.V. Kotwal and R.R. Bhonsale scrutinised the actions of the Maharashtra government regarding alleged procedural irregularities in the inquiry.

Specifically, the court examined the Accidental Death Report (ADR) that was filed under Section 174 of the Criminal Procedure Code (CrPC). The bench raised questions about the validity of reopening an inquiry several years post the initial investigation, particularly how such a procedure was initiated after a substantial delay.

Public Prosecutor Shishir Hiray informed the court that the ADR, which had been accepted in February 2021, was re-evaluated in December 2023 due to public scepticism. The judges questioned the foundation for these actions, asking for clarity on the legal justifications for restarting the proceedings after such an extended period.

Discrepancies in Initial Inquiry Highlighted

The High Court further underscored several discrepancies and gaps during the initial investigation phase, particularly regarding the absence of vital evidence like direct CCTV footage from the location where Disha Salian allegedly fell. The court noted inconsistencies among witness statements about a locked door, with no physical damage found according to the panchnama.

In addition, the court raised concerns about the autopsy, pointing out that state guidelines stipulate that such procedures should be conducted by two doctors, but Salian’s post-mortem was reportedly carried out by only one medical professional. These issues further complicated the enquiry’s credibility, prompting the bench to call into question the thoroughness of the investigation.

While the prosecution contended that Satish Salian’s plea came significantly delayed and he had not raised initial allegations, the court maintained that his emotional state post his daughter’s demise was a critical factor. The judges remarked that his grief might have affected his ability to pursue immediate action.

Push for Comprehensive Conclusion

The court made it clear that their deliberation was solely focused on ensuring that Satish Salian receives a fair resolution regarding his daughter’s case. The judges explicitly stated that their work intended to bring closure in line with established legal processes, and they would not be distracted by any political allegations surrounding the case.

As the session concluded, the judges expressed the necessity of exploring all possible angles in the investigation, particularly given the nature of the case, which involves allegations of suicide. They reiterated the importance of following due process to ensure that the investigation leads to a definitive outcome.

Arguments in this ongoing matter are set to resume on Friday, with the possibility of lawyers representing Shiv Sena UBT leader Aditya Thackeray being allowed to intervene in the proceedings. Satish Salian’s petition demands the formal registration of a First Information Report (FIR) and contains serious allegations against Thackeray, among others.

Disha Salian died on 8 June 2020 after reportedly falling from a residential building in Mumbai, which has led to numerous investigations and inquiries. Previously, she served as the manager for actor Sushant Singh Rajput, who was found deceased shortly after her demise. Satish Salian’s petition alleges that his daughter was subjected to gang rape and murder, and claims that local police have not acted in accordance with legal procedures to address these allegations.

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